Amanda McCormick was in debt $30,000 on just a few credit cards. Similar to a very expensive loan, her debt could have been avoided if she followed one simple rule. If you can’t pay it off right now - buy it later.

So, make sure you choose credit cards with low interest rates and no annual fees. Also, if you do get into trouble, consumer credit counselors can help repair your damaged credit score - which measures the history of your credit transactions. A bad score can make it difficult and expensive to get loans, so make sure to check your score at least once a year.

Amanda McCormick

Amanda McCormick is a senior at Florida State and a server at a local restaurant. She used credit cards to help pay for her living expenses, which spiraled into $30,000 of debt. Now, she’s working with a consumer credit counselor to get back on track.

What the Experts Say

"For the big things, put it on the credit card—but you’d better be able to pay it off that next month."